British Sign Language Diploma Course

Course Description Sign language is one of the only ways in which deaf people or those with hearing impairments are able to communicate. This type of language involves not only hand gestures but also facial expressions and body language, all combined to enable effective communication. Sign language is now used all over the world in many different forms.

In this online training course, we will primarily focus on the UK’s main form of sign language: British Sign Language. The British Sign Langauge course will go over some of the main elements of this language, as well as its interesting history. From there, the course will move on to explore some of the world’s other forms of sign language.

American Sign Language is most commonly used worldwide, but there are actually hundreds of different versions of sign language. The course will also take a look at the importance of deaf awareness and why sign language is such an irreplaceable tool. People who learn sign language have many opportunities in the job market, which this course will also go over.

You will then learn many commonly used words in BSL. These are covered in three separate stages: 1. ‘Foundation’ - alphabet, numbers, colours, animals2.

‘Basic’ - people, hobbies, weather, transport, time3. ‘Expansion’ - greetings, daily life, home, question forms, expressions, food, and drink, compass The BSL words will be demonstrated in videos. When practicing the words yourself, try to copy exactly what the person in the video is doing.

Many signs require the use of only one hand, but some require both hands to be used. You can choose which is your dominant or main hand in signing - most people choose the hand they write with. Whichever you choose, make sure you are consistent.

Don't start signing with one dominant hand and then change halfway through the conversation, as this will lead to confusion. All in all, you will complete this BSL course with a good knowledge of sign language in general and, specifically, a sound understanding of British Sign Language. You will then have enough knowledge to go on to complete the Level 1 Award in BSL.

You Will Learn: The difference between British Sign Language and other types of sign language around the world How sign language is used, and why it’s so important The basics and history of British Sign Language Job opportunities for people who learn British Sign Language Nearly 300 signs that can help in your day-to-day life Benefits of Studying This Course Gain a working knowledge of British Sign Language Discover what kinds of job opportunities people who know sign language have access to Learn about important aspects of the deaf community, and help build awareness Complete the course with valuable knowledge about sign language and its history It’s a great introduction to BSL, before taking the Level 1 Award. Who can take the course?Anyone who has an interest in learning more about this subject matter is encouraged to take the course. There are no entry requirements to take the course.

What is the structure of the course?The course is broken down into 18 individual modules. Each module takes between 20 and 90 minutes on average to study. Although you are free to spend as much or as little time as you feel necessary on each module, simply log in and out of the course at your convenience.

Where / when can I study the course?You can study the course any time you like. Simply log in and out of the web-based course as often as you require. The course is compatible with all computers, tablet devices, and smartphones so you can even study while on the move!

Is there a test at the end of the course?Once you have completed all modules there is a multiple-choice test. The questions will be on a range of topics found within the modules. The test, like the course, is online and can be taken a time and location of your choosing.

What is the pass mark for the final test?The pass mark for the test is 70%. If you don’t pass the test the first time you will get further opportunities to take the test again after extra study. There are no limits to the number of times you can take the test.

All test retakes are included within the price of the course. When will I receive my certificate?Once you have completed your test you can log in to your account and download/print your certificate any time you need it.How long does it take to complete the course?We estimate that the course will take about 2.5 hours to complete in total, plus an additional 30 minutes for the end of course test. Course Content Module 01: Introduction to British Sign Language and Overview of Worldwide Sign Language Module 02: Deaf Awareness and Career Opportunities for People Who Know Sign Language Module 03: Foundation – Letters Module 04: Foundation – Numbers Module 05: Foundation – Colours Module 06: Foundation – Animals Module 07: Basic – People Module 08: Basic – Hobbies Module 09: Basic – Weather Module 10: Basic – Transport Module